Can You Get Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant?

 During pregnancy, women experience significant physiological changes in their bodies. One of the physiological changes that might occur as a result of hormone fluctuations is the development of undesired hair growth. If an individual is experiencing the emergence of hair in previously unobserved areas or encountering difficulties in shaving their legs due to an enlarged abdomen, they may contemplate the option of laser hair removal.

Is laser hair removal considered safe during pregnancy? What are the potential physiological impacts of laser treatment on the female’s body, with particular emphasis on its effects on foetal development? This article has answers to all these questions so continue reading to ascertain this tutorial prepared by taking reference from Dr. Shilpi Bhadani practising at the SB Aesthetics, the best laser hair removal clinic Gurgaon. 

How Does Pregnancy Affect Hair Growth?

During pregnancy, individuals often experience a sense of detachment from their usual sense of self. Certain women exhibit a radiant demeanour characterised by enthusiasm and joy throughout a span of nine months, whereas others may experience a less favourable sentiment towards the physical transformations occurring within their bodies.

During the gestational period, hormonal fluctuations reach peak levels, hence exerting an influence on the regular cycle of hair growth. Throughout the gestation period, numerous women begin to observe the emergence of hair in undesirable regions such as the facial area, neck, abdominal region, and mammary glands.

Is the Safety of Laser Hair Removal Established for Pregnant Women?

Numerous healthcare professionals recommend refraining from undergoing laser hair removal procedures during pregnancy.

Laser hair removal is the safest hair removal treatment.  However, it is important to note that there is presently a lack of comprehensive long-term research examining the potential effects of laser hair treatment on the development of pregnant children. Therefore, it is advisable to use caution in order to mitigate any risks.

It is advisable to commence laser hair removal treatments postpartum, subsequent to the delivery of the baby.

During pregnancy, the human body experiences a surge of hormonal activity. Elevated amounts of oestrogen and androgen have been observed to induce the growth of hair in previously uncharacteristic regions, particularly during the third trimester.

The sudden appearance of hair on many regions of the body, such as the abdomen, face, neck, breasts, and arms, may be observed. It is noteworthy that the occurrence of hair growth during pregnancy is a prevalent phenomenon, which typically resolves spontaneously following childbirth.

The impact of pregnancy hormones extends beyond the emergence and quantity of hair growth, since they also alter the hair growth cycle.

Both the hair on the head and the hairs on the body undergo a phase of active growth known as anagen. Once the hair has reached its full growth, it transitions into a phase known as telogen, during which it undergoes a period of rest before eventually shedding.

The presence of pregnancy hormones may contribute to the prolongation of the hair growth phase, thereby explaining the observed increase in hair thickness and fullness. The human body is exhibiting a reduced rate of hair shedding.

Approximately three to six months subsequent to childbirth and the restoration of hormonal equilibrium, the surplus hair will undergo a process of shedding. The condition characterised by the abrupt shedding of hair is referred to as telogen effluvium.

The potential hair growth stimulated by oestrogen, coupled with the growing challenge of accessing some body areas due to abdominal expansion, can prompt individuals to contemplate the advisability of arranging a laser hair removal session as a substitute for conventional hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams.

The Mechanism of Hair Removal With Lasers

A laser hair treatment utilises a laser that emits light to specifically target hair. The laser emits light which is subsequently absorbed by the pigment present in the hair. This mechanism explains why laser hair removal is most effective on individuals with light-coloured skin and dark hair. Subsequently, the light undergoes conversion into thermal energy, which results in detrimental effects on the hair follicles.

The observable outcomes of laser hair removal are most pronounced following multiple treatment sessions. In order to achieve enhanced outcomes, it may be necessary to implement certain maintenance methods.

A significant proportion of individuals do not necessitate any additional modifications for a minimum duration of five years subsequent to undergoing the prescribed series of laser operations. The outcomes will have a lasting or enduring nature for those other than oneself. There are several aspects contributing to the efficacy of this operation, nevertheless, regardless of its duration, it remains one of the most optimal options for liberating individuals from the need to engage in regular hair removal practises.

Potential Risks If A Pregnant Women Get Laser Hair Removal

• Risk of erythema and skin irritation
• Transient alterations in skin pigmentation, particularly observed in individuals with a higher melanin content in their skin.
• The alterations in the texture of the skin
• The occurrence of transient blister formation or scab formation.

The majority of individuals experience moderate side effects that typically resolve within a few days following the completion of the procedure. But, pregnant one may encounter heightened skin sensitivity and alterations in pigmentation, rendering the skin more susceptible to irritation or pigmentation modifications subsequent to laser therapy.

Skin burns may also be a potential outcome. Although this problem is infrequent, it is possible to occur. Pregnant women undergoing laser hair removal may encounter delayed recovery from associated complications due to their modified physiological condition. There is a lack of empirical evidence supporting the notion that laser hair removal does any harm to the foetus, but one must not take a risk.

It is important to consider that the efficacy of laser treatments may be diminished during pregnancy. The hair growth cycle is influenced by pregnancy. Hormones primarily influence the terminal phase of the hair cycle, which is characterised by hair shedding. In essence, the human body retains the hair that has undergone growth, resulting in the perception of increased hair volume compared to the typical amount.

The hair growth cycle often resumes to its usual/normal state following childbirth. The primary factor contributing to the phenomenon of seeming excessive hair loss in postpartum women is the main focus of this discussion. This phenomenon can be attributed to the culmination of excessive hair growth. It is anticipated that after a span of several months, a process of normalisation will occur, leading to the resumption of a regular hair growth cycle.

Safe Alternatives of Laser Hair Removal During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, females seeking alternatives to laser hair removal might resort to traditional and time-tested methods that have been utilised for centuries. 

If a female is currently in the phase of planning for pregnancy, they may consider adopting a proactive and strategic strategy. It is advisable for individuals to contemplate the commencement of laser therapy prior to pregnancy in order to facilitate grooming and style practices during the gestational period.

Recommended timeframe for Laser Hair Removal After Childbirth

To proactively address the changes that occur during pregnancy, it is advisable to initiate laser hair removal prior to conception, if circumstances permit. It is important to allow for ample flexibility, as numerous sessions will be necessary. The recommended interval between treatments may vary depending on the specific region undergoing treatment, but often falls within a range of four to six weeks.

It is advisable to allocate a significant timeframe and commence preparations several months prior to the anticipated conception in order to provide a suitable margin.

It is recommended that those who have undergone a caesarean section or an episiotomy during childbirth should abstain from undergoing any therapy on the bikini line until the scars have completely healed. The objective of this action is to mitigate any potential complications.
To know more like breastfeed after laser hair removal, take consultation with a skilled laser expert. To do so visit SB Aesthetics, the best plastic surgery clinic in Gurgaon to avail the benefits of premium laser hair removal as well as plastic surgery services.